**Turkey Accuses Cyprus of Hindering EU Customs Union Modernization Efforts**
Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has publicly criticized Cyprus for allegedly obstructing efforts to modernize the customs union between Turkey and the European Union (EU). This accusation was made during a joint press conference held in Ankara on Wednesday with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev, following the seventh meeting of the Turkey-Kyrgyzstan Joint Strategic Planning Group.
Fidan emphasized that there is significant support from the majority of EU member states for updating the customs union, yet he claimed that progress is being impeded by the position of the Republic of Cyprus, which he referred to as the "Greek Cypriot side." He stated, "Because the Greek Cypriot side is exercising a certain block on this issue, the necessary steps cannot be taken at the desired pace."
The customs union between Turkey and the EU has been a topic of discussion for years, with both parties expressing a desire to modernize it to better reflect current economic and trade realities. However, Fidan's remarks highlight ongoing tensions in the region, particularly regarding Cyprus's influence within the EU framework.
During the press conference, Fidan also touched upon the broader implications of one member state's actions affecting the decision-making processes of the entire bloc. He noted that when a single member state is unable to achieve its objectives on a particular issue, it can lead to blockages in other areas that are important to the rest of the EU.
In addition to discussing the customs union, Fidan and Kulubayev addressed the situation of Turkish Cypriots, whom Fidan described as facing "unjust isolation." He characterized Turkish Cypriots as "an inseparable part of the Turkic world," indicating a desire for greater recognition and support for their status.
The dialogue between Turkey and Kyrgyzstan also included discussions on regional stability, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine and its potential for wider escalation in the region. Fidan underscored the importance of cooperation among Turkic nations and the role of the Organisation of Turkic States in fostering this unity.
Fidan's remarks also included references to recent meetings with EU officials, including the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, and other commissioners. He described these discussions as pivotal for Turkey's aspirations for full EU membership, which he identified as a strategic objective for the country. He noted that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has shown strong commitment to Turkey's European ambitions.
The Foreign Minister highlighted that relations between Turkey and the EU have seen a more constructive trajectory recently, with high-level dialogues resuming on various topics such as trade, migration, security, science, and technology. He mentioned that the European Investment Bank has begun to partially resume activities in Turkey, and Turkish authorities are working towards the country's participation in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA).
Fidan concluded by asserting that discussions with EU officials have encompassed a wide range of issues, including foreign policy, energy, transport, trade, migration, and visa liberalization. He expressed optimism that the EU recognizes Turkey's strategic geographical position and infrastructure capabilities, which could play a significant role in future collaborations.
The ongoing tensions between Turkey and Cyprus, particularly concerning the customs union and the status of Turkish Cypriots, continue to be a focal point in Turkey's relations with the EU and its broader geopolitical strategy. As Turkey seeks to strengthen its ties with both the EU and Turkic nations, the resolution of these issues will likely remain a critical factor in shaping regional dynamics.